09-09-2026, 10:58 PM
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Fantasy An innocent couplesRunning
06-11-2026, 06:59 AM
Chapter 6: Steps Toward Change
Dilip received his first month’s salary and called Ramya over a video call.
Ramya: Hi Dilip! Lately, we haven't been able to talk much. You called me like this after such a long time.
Dilip: Yes, dear. We're running to build our future. It’s just a matter of three years—it will pass quickly, and then we’ll have our best life.
They continued talking about their finances, future plans, and families. Finally, Dilip asked:
Dilip: Ramya, did you manage to take the next step toward becoming bolder?
Ramya: Yes, Shiny is helping me. She is my inspiration! I even got Raj to bring the milk packets up from the ground floor daily.
Dilip: Wow, that’s great progress! You didn't just speak to a guy; you got him to do some work for you.
Ramya: Yes, but lately, I noticed he’s losing interest in talking or helping me. He just drops the milk outside and leaves for work.
Dilip: What do you mean?
Ramya: Well, Shiny told me that unless we look attractive, guys won't stick around. They need a reason to interact with us. I tried to look a bit modern with what I had, but it didn't work because all the girls here are extremely modern. I still look quite traditional and rural.
Dilip: Ramya, if you come here, you'll be shocked. Women here dress very modernly and do everything independently. They drive and manage things on their own. I want you to reach that level too.
Ramya: I’m trying, but...
Dilip: But what?
Ramya: Shiny said I need to work on my overall appearance. Looking modern with a good hairstyle, trendy clothes, and makeup gives 50% of the confidence right away.
Dilip: I understand, Ramya. Okay, I got my salary, and I’m sending you some money. Go with Shiny or get your hair cut, apply some makeup, and buy nice clothes.
Ramya: Sure, Dilip. Will you select a dress for me?
Dilip sent pictures of shorts and t-shirts.
Ramya: Yeah, I’ll try these.
Dilip: What about this one?
He shared a picture of a bikini.
Ramya: Chi, I can’t wear this!
Dilip: See, Ramya, if you aren't confident in your own body, you can't wear things like this. You need to get comfortable with these modern styles.
Ramya: I will try...
Dilip: You know, Priya gave me a hug right in front of her husband. A friendly hug is very normal here, and others will hug you too. You need to get used to it.
Ramya felt a bit annoyed because Dilip kept comparing her to Priya, and also because another girl had hugged him.
Ramya: I will try.
Later that weekend, Ramya went shopping with Shiny. Shiny helped her pick out some kurtis, leggings, shorts, and t-shirts. She also got her a push-up bra and suggested she wear it. Afterward, Shiny took her to a beauty parlor, where Ramya got a stylish new haircut.
When it was all done, Ramya could barely believe her eyes—she looked like a stylish, city-bred Chennai girl.
Shiny: Time to test it out! Anyone will fall for you today.
Ramya decided to try her new look on Raj, viewing him as a starting point. Her primary goal was simply to make a male friend.
Early the next morning, Ramya woke up, applied light makeup, and put on a t-shirt with a knee-length skirt for the first time. She snapped a picture and sent it to Dilip.
Dilip's Message: Wow, nice improvement! But you still look like a cute village girl.
In truth, Dilip was pleased with her progress, but he held back his full praise. He felt that if he complimented her too much, she would stop pushing herself, so he teased her slightly to keep her motivated.
Ramya picked up a box of sweets she had bought during her shopping trip and planned her next move.
Meanwhile, Raj walked up to the terrace, left the milk packet outside her door, and climbed up near the water tank to finish his work.
Ramya stepped out, picked up the milk, walked over toward the tank, and asked Raj if he could drop by her apartment before he left for the day. He agreed, noting to himself that Ramya looked completely different today.
When Raj finished his work, he came to her door.
Ramya offered him a sweet and said, "Eat this. Today is my parents' birthday."
Raj: My hands are dirty, let me wash them first.
For a brief second, Ramya thought about feeding it to him herself, but she hesitated. She wasn't comfortable enough to act that casual yet.
After washing his hands, Raj took a sweet.
Raj: Thank you! It’s been a long time since I ate a sweet.
Desperate to build a friendly bond, Ramya said, "You can come over anytime you want sweets! I always keep some stocked."
Raj: Can I ask you something?
Ramya: Sure, ask.
Raj: You look very different today.
Trying to act confident and modern, Ramya replied, "I am actually quite modern! I’m planning to settle abroad, though I dress simple for studies."
Raj: That’s nice. You look good. Thanks again!
Ramya: It's okay.
As Raj turned to leave, Ramya gathered her courage, reached out, and offered a handshake.
Ramya: Thanks for coming, friend!
Raj: I’m just a worker here, madam.
Ramya: That doesn't matter. You can still be my friend.
She then shared her phone number with him. Ramya felt a surge of happiness knowing she had taken a real step forward.
From that day on, Raj sent her simple "Good morning" and "Good night" messages. Ramya responded regularly and occasionally asked him for minor help around the house, which he happily provided whenever he was free.
One evening, Dilip called her again.
Dilip: Ramya, did you try the shorts you bought?
Ramya: Not out in the open yet. I wore them once to sleep at night, but that’s it.
Dilip: Hey, those aren't even as short as what girls wear here. Why don't you at least wear them at home?
Ramya: I’ll try. What about you, sir? Have you made any female friends yet?
Dilip: Priya still talks to me well, but with others, it's just basic greetings. I have their numbers, but I don't know how to be as casual as the others, nor do I know what to talk about.
Ramya: See? You’re shy too! At least I made a friend.
Dilip: You mean Raj?
Ramya: Yes, we’re friends now. When I ask for help, he assists me with groceries and small chores. In return, I cook and share food with him.
Dilip: I think we both have a long way to go.
Ramya: Yes, we do.
Dilip: Raj is easy to talk to because he’s a simple guy. Making friends with college peers will be harder.
Ramya: The thing with college friends is that they often go out on bike rides, coffee dates, and dinners. First of all, that’s an expensive lifestyle. Second, I’m not ready to go out to movies and hang out in big groups yet. I need more time.
Dilip: I’ll increase your allowance from next month so you can gradually socialize with that crowd too.
Ramya: Let's see. I have time, and I'll learn step by step.
Dilip: Okay dear, I miss you. We’ll do this together and settle in Canada without having to struggle in a quiet village.
Ramya: Definitely, dear.
They ended the call. A moment later, Ramya received a text from Raj with a "Good night" image.
She thought to herself, I’m shy, but I’m trying to open up. Raj is even shyer—he only sends standard morning and night texts and still calls me 'madam.' I wonder if this is a real friendship or not.
She decided to text him back.
Ramya: Hi
Raj: Hi! Aren't you sleeping yet? I see your light is still on.
Ramya: Yeah, just finishing some work.
Raj: I just had dinner. Ramu Anna went to sleep, so I’m just walking on the terrace.
Ramya looked through her window curtain and saw Raj walking on the terrace in just shorts and a vest. She wondered whether she should ask him directly about their friendship.
Ramya: Okay. What time do you usually sleep?
Raj: I’ll walk for a bit, listen to some music, and then head to sleep.
Ramya: Don't you talk to your family?
Raj: I’m an orphan, so I don't have a family. Just Ramu Anna as a friend.
Ramya: Hey... so am I not your friend then?
Raj: You are a rich madam. I’m just a low-wage worker. How can we be friends?
Ramya: So you think I only talk to you out of pity? I genuinely thought of you as a friend.
Raj: No, madam, actually...
Ramya: Just call me Ramya!
Raj: Okay... I will be your friend, Ramya.
Ramya: That’s better! Can I ask you something?
Raj: Yes, madam.
Ramya: If you call me 'madam' one more time, I’ll stop talking to you!
Raj: Sorry, Ramya! Ask away.
Ramya: In the beginning, whenever I asked for help or requested milk, you avoided me. But later, you started helping. Why was that? You help everyone else normally.
Raj: Honestly, everyone else treats me like a basic worker—I do the job, and they tip me. But you are young. I’ve never spoken to a girl younger than me before. Usually, girls don't talk to workers like me at all. I was too shy to look at you or speak to you. You also looked very traditional, and I didn't want to do or say anything that might make you uncomfortable or misunderstand me.
Ramya: Then how did you get comfortable with me?
Raj: It was when you invited me over, gave me sweets, and even shook my hand. No one has ever treated me like that before. Even now, it brings tears to my eyes.
Ramya: Hey, we’re friends, okay? I’ll be a friend to you just like Ramu Anna.
Raj: Thank you.
Ramya: So, what are you doing now?
Raj: Just walking around.
Ramya: Do you always walk after meals?
Raj: Yes. Do you?
Ramya: I never used to, but I can!
Raj: If you come out to your balcony or terrace, wave at me!
Ramya: Okay, let me wrap up my work and I’ll tell you.
Ramya felt proud of herself. Remembering Dilip’s advice about wearing shorts, she gathered her courage and decided to wear her modest, knee-length shorts with a basic short-sleeved t-shirt. It was her first time stepping out in casual modern clothes, even though it was completely normal in their apartment complex.
Heart pounding with excitement, she stepped out onto the open corridor and texted him.
Ramya: Hi, I’m walking outside now.
Raj walked over to the edge of his terrace. He could see a figure standing below, though it was hard to see clearly in the dim moonlight and scattered apartment lights. Both of them waved at each other.
Raj: I can't see you very clearly, but thanks for coming out and waving!
Ramya: Hey, we're friends! It's just a friendly gesture, so relax.
They continued walking and texting each other. Eventually, both walked toward a bright light pole near the corner where the building blocks connected.
When Raj saw Ramya in shorts for the first time, he was caught completely off guard. Out of sheer shyness, he avoided looking directly at her, keeping his eyes turned toward the night sky so he wouldn't stare at her legs or the print on her t-shirt. Wanting to be respectful, he quickly excused himself.
Raj: I should head back to sleep now. Good night!
They both went back to their rooms. Sitting on her bed, Ramya texted him again.
Ramya: Raj, are you okay? We were chatting fine over messages, but when we met outside, you acted strange and left early. Did I do something wrong?
Raj: I was just worried that our friendship might be ruined...
Ramya: Why would you think that?
Raj: It was the first time we met outside of work, late at night. You were wearing shorts, and I had an urge to look... and read what was written on your shirt. But I was afraid you would feel uncomfortable or misjudge me. That's why I felt shy and left. Sorry...
Ramya smiled to herself, realizing that if she was shy, Raj was even shyer.
Deciding to be bold, she snapped a quick selfie showing the text on her t-shirt and sent it to him. It read: Modern Woman 1986.
Raj: Oh, nice design!
Raj: Is this your first time wearing this?
Not wanting to sound completely inexperienced, Ramya replied:
Ramya: I wear shorts and tees every night to sleep!
Raj: Oh, okay! It’s just the first time I've seen you at night, so I didn't know.
Ramya: Normally I don't go outside in my sleepwear, but since you're my friend, I felt comfortable coming out.
Raj felt deeply touched by her words.
Raj: Thank you, Ramya. Good night!
Ramya smiled as she put her phone away. She felt accomplished after her very first real conversation, nighttime meet-up, and photo share.
Dilip received his first month’s salary and called Ramya over a video call.
Ramya: Hi Dilip! Lately, we haven't been able to talk much. You called me like this after such a long time.
Dilip: Yes, dear. We're running to build our future. It’s just a matter of three years—it will pass quickly, and then we’ll have our best life.
They continued talking about their finances, future plans, and families. Finally, Dilip asked:
Dilip: Ramya, did you manage to take the next step toward becoming bolder?
Ramya: Yes, Shiny is helping me. She is my inspiration! I even got Raj to bring the milk packets up from the ground floor daily.
Dilip: Wow, that’s great progress! You didn't just speak to a guy; you got him to do some work for you.
Ramya: Yes, but lately, I noticed he’s losing interest in talking or helping me. He just drops the milk outside and leaves for work.
Dilip: What do you mean?
Ramya: Well, Shiny told me that unless we look attractive, guys won't stick around. They need a reason to interact with us. I tried to look a bit modern with what I had, but it didn't work because all the girls here are extremely modern. I still look quite traditional and rural.
Dilip: Ramya, if you come here, you'll be shocked. Women here dress very modernly and do everything independently. They drive and manage things on their own. I want you to reach that level too.
Ramya: I’m trying, but...
Dilip: But what?
Ramya: Shiny said I need to work on my overall appearance. Looking modern with a good hairstyle, trendy clothes, and makeup gives 50% of the confidence right away.
Dilip: I understand, Ramya. Okay, I got my salary, and I’m sending you some money. Go with Shiny or get your hair cut, apply some makeup, and buy nice clothes.
Ramya: Sure, Dilip. Will you select a dress for me?
Dilip sent pictures of shorts and t-shirts.
Ramya: Yeah, I’ll try these.
Dilip: What about this one?
He shared a picture of a bikini.
Ramya: Chi, I can’t wear this!
Dilip: See, Ramya, if you aren't confident in your own body, you can't wear things like this. You need to get comfortable with these modern styles.
Ramya: I will try...
Dilip: You know, Priya gave me a hug right in front of her husband. A friendly hug is very normal here, and others will hug you too. You need to get used to it.
Ramya felt a bit annoyed because Dilip kept comparing her to Priya, and also because another girl had hugged him.
Ramya: I will try.
Later that weekend, Ramya went shopping with Shiny. Shiny helped her pick out some kurtis, leggings, shorts, and t-shirts. She also got her a push-up bra and suggested she wear it. Afterward, Shiny took her to a beauty parlor, where Ramya got a stylish new haircut.
When it was all done, Ramya could barely believe her eyes—she looked like a stylish, city-bred Chennai girl.
Shiny: Time to test it out! Anyone will fall for you today.
Ramya decided to try her new look on Raj, viewing him as a starting point. Her primary goal was simply to make a male friend.
Early the next morning, Ramya woke up, applied light makeup, and put on a t-shirt with a knee-length skirt for the first time. She snapped a picture and sent it to Dilip.
Dilip's Message: Wow, nice improvement! But you still look like a cute village girl.
In truth, Dilip was pleased with her progress, but he held back his full praise. He felt that if he complimented her too much, she would stop pushing herself, so he teased her slightly to keep her motivated.
Ramya picked up a box of sweets she had bought during her shopping trip and planned her next move.
Meanwhile, Raj walked up to the terrace, left the milk packet outside her door, and climbed up near the water tank to finish his work.
Ramya stepped out, picked up the milk, walked over toward the tank, and asked Raj if he could drop by her apartment before he left for the day. He agreed, noting to himself that Ramya looked completely different today.
When Raj finished his work, he came to her door.
Ramya offered him a sweet and said, "Eat this. Today is my parents' birthday."
Raj: My hands are dirty, let me wash them first.
For a brief second, Ramya thought about feeding it to him herself, but she hesitated. She wasn't comfortable enough to act that casual yet.
After washing his hands, Raj took a sweet.
Raj: Thank you! It’s been a long time since I ate a sweet.
Desperate to build a friendly bond, Ramya said, "You can come over anytime you want sweets! I always keep some stocked."
Raj: Can I ask you something?
Ramya: Sure, ask.
Raj: You look very different today.
Trying to act confident and modern, Ramya replied, "I am actually quite modern! I’m planning to settle abroad, though I dress simple for studies."
Raj: That’s nice. You look good. Thanks again!
Ramya: It's okay.
As Raj turned to leave, Ramya gathered her courage, reached out, and offered a handshake.
Ramya: Thanks for coming, friend!
Raj: I’m just a worker here, madam.
Ramya: That doesn't matter. You can still be my friend.
She then shared her phone number with him. Ramya felt a surge of happiness knowing she had taken a real step forward.
From that day on, Raj sent her simple "Good morning" and "Good night" messages. Ramya responded regularly and occasionally asked him for minor help around the house, which he happily provided whenever he was free.
One evening, Dilip called her again.
Dilip: Ramya, did you try the shorts you bought?
Ramya: Not out in the open yet. I wore them once to sleep at night, but that’s it.
Dilip: Hey, those aren't even as short as what girls wear here. Why don't you at least wear them at home?
Ramya: I’ll try. What about you, sir? Have you made any female friends yet?
Dilip: Priya still talks to me well, but with others, it's just basic greetings. I have their numbers, but I don't know how to be as casual as the others, nor do I know what to talk about.
Ramya: See? You’re shy too! At least I made a friend.
Dilip: You mean Raj?
Ramya: Yes, we’re friends now. When I ask for help, he assists me with groceries and small chores. In return, I cook and share food with him.
Dilip: I think we both have a long way to go.
Ramya: Yes, we do.
Dilip: Raj is easy to talk to because he’s a simple guy. Making friends with college peers will be harder.
Ramya: The thing with college friends is that they often go out on bike rides, coffee dates, and dinners. First of all, that’s an expensive lifestyle. Second, I’m not ready to go out to movies and hang out in big groups yet. I need more time.
Dilip: I’ll increase your allowance from next month so you can gradually socialize with that crowd too.
Ramya: Let's see. I have time, and I'll learn step by step.
Dilip: Okay dear, I miss you. We’ll do this together and settle in Canada without having to struggle in a quiet village.
Ramya: Definitely, dear.
They ended the call. A moment later, Ramya received a text from Raj with a "Good night" image.
She thought to herself, I’m shy, but I’m trying to open up. Raj is even shyer—he only sends standard morning and night texts and still calls me 'madam.' I wonder if this is a real friendship or not.
She decided to text him back.
Ramya: Hi
Raj: Hi! Aren't you sleeping yet? I see your light is still on.
Ramya: Yeah, just finishing some work.
Raj: I just had dinner. Ramu Anna went to sleep, so I’m just walking on the terrace.
Ramya looked through her window curtain and saw Raj walking on the terrace in just shorts and a vest. She wondered whether she should ask him directly about their friendship.
Ramya: Okay. What time do you usually sleep?
Raj: I’ll walk for a bit, listen to some music, and then head to sleep.
Ramya: Don't you talk to your family?
Raj: I’m an orphan, so I don't have a family. Just Ramu Anna as a friend.
Ramya: Hey... so am I not your friend then?
Raj: You are a rich madam. I’m just a low-wage worker. How can we be friends?
Ramya: So you think I only talk to you out of pity? I genuinely thought of you as a friend.
Raj: No, madam, actually...
Ramya: Just call me Ramya!
Raj: Okay... I will be your friend, Ramya.
Ramya: That’s better! Can I ask you something?
Raj: Yes, madam.
Ramya: If you call me 'madam' one more time, I’ll stop talking to you!
Raj: Sorry, Ramya! Ask away.
Ramya: In the beginning, whenever I asked for help or requested milk, you avoided me. But later, you started helping. Why was that? You help everyone else normally.
Raj: Honestly, everyone else treats me like a basic worker—I do the job, and they tip me. But you are young. I’ve never spoken to a girl younger than me before. Usually, girls don't talk to workers like me at all. I was too shy to look at you or speak to you. You also looked very traditional, and I didn't want to do or say anything that might make you uncomfortable or misunderstand me.
Ramya: Then how did you get comfortable with me?
Raj: It was when you invited me over, gave me sweets, and even shook my hand. No one has ever treated me like that before. Even now, it brings tears to my eyes.
Ramya: Hey, we’re friends, okay? I’ll be a friend to you just like Ramu Anna.
Raj: Thank you.
Ramya: So, what are you doing now?
Raj: Just walking around.
Ramya: Do you always walk after meals?
Raj: Yes. Do you?
Ramya: I never used to, but I can!
Raj: If you come out to your balcony or terrace, wave at me!
Ramya: Okay, let me wrap up my work and I’ll tell you.
Ramya felt proud of herself. Remembering Dilip’s advice about wearing shorts, she gathered her courage and decided to wear her modest, knee-length shorts with a basic short-sleeved t-shirt. It was her first time stepping out in casual modern clothes, even though it was completely normal in their apartment complex.
Heart pounding with excitement, she stepped out onto the open corridor and texted him.
Ramya: Hi, I’m walking outside now.
Raj walked over to the edge of his terrace. He could see a figure standing below, though it was hard to see clearly in the dim moonlight and scattered apartment lights. Both of them waved at each other.
Raj: I can't see you very clearly, but thanks for coming out and waving!
Ramya: Hey, we're friends! It's just a friendly gesture, so relax.
They continued walking and texting each other. Eventually, both walked toward a bright light pole near the corner where the building blocks connected.
When Raj saw Ramya in shorts for the first time, he was caught completely off guard. Out of sheer shyness, he avoided looking directly at her, keeping his eyes turned toward the night sky so he wouldn't stare at her legs or the print on her t-shirt. Wanting to be respectful, he quickly excused himself.
Raj: I should head back to sleep now. Good night!
They both went back to their rooms. Sitting on her bed, Ramya texted him again.
Ramya: Raj, are you okay? We were chatting fine over messages, but when we met outside, you acted strange and left early. Did I do something wrong?
Raj: I was just worried that our friendship might be ruined...
Ramya: Why would you think that?
Raj: It was the first time we met outside of work, late at night. You were wearing shorts, and I had an urge to look... and read what was written on your shirt. But I was afraid you would feel uncomfortable or misjudge me. That's why I felt shy and left. Sorry...
Ramya smiled to herself, realizing that if she was shy, Raj was even shyer.
Deciding to be bold, she snapped a quick selfie showing the text on her t-shirt and sent it to him. It read: Modern Woman 1986.
Raj: Oh, nice design!
Raj: Is this your first time wearing this?
Not wanting to sound completely inexperienced, Ramya replied:
Ramya: I wear shorts and tees every night to sleep!
Raj: Oh, okay! It’s just the first time I've seen you at night, so I didn't know.
Ramya: Normally I don't go outside in my sleepwear, but since you're my friend, I felt comfortable coming out.
Raj felt deeply touched by her words.
Raj: Thank you, Ramya. Good night!
Ramya smiled as she put her phone away. She felt accomplished after her very first real conversation, nighttime meet-up, and photo share.
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